This cycad has a subterranean stem (caudex) that is topped in a loose whorl of arching glossy dark green palm-like fronds at ground level, with a thicket-like habit. It has green male and female cones on separate plants and the seeds ripen to orange-red.

Hardiness zones 10 to 12

Macrozamia lucida is naturally found in Australia from Pottsville in northern New South Wales Nambour in southern Queensland growing in the understory of sub-tropical and wet rainforests on the coast and in the lower mountains. 

It prefers a semi-shaded to sunny protected position and grows in well-drained, organic rich poor sandy stony soils that are tending acidic. It is drought and light frost tolerant and rejuvenates after fire.

The Pineapple Zamia is grown for its attractive foliage and colourful fruit.  It is planted along garden borders as an understory or use in large rockeries. It is also planted in shaded tropical gardens as a specimen or in group paintings and is grown in patio pots and planter boxes commonly around pools for a tropical effect.

It is suitable to coastal and low-mountain regions and establishes in 3-5 years and it has long lived. It is commonly grown in coastal gardens and adapts well to cultivation. ID 1868

Macrozamia (mak-ro-ZAIM-ee-a) lucida (loo-sid-uh)

Zamiaceae (ZAH-mee-AY-see-ee)
Zamias, Cycads Family